By Robin GOLDSWORTHY

Whether a connoisseur of red, white or rosé, the Kiwanis Club of the Verdugos had something for those who enjoy the product of the grape at its inaugural Wine Fest. Held at the J. Walter Smith Student Center on the campus of Glendale Community College (GCC) on Saturday, the event brought together food, wine and people.

Four wineries were represented at the Fest. From Italy, Stefan Gagliano poured tastes from various Deep Roots Imports. Preston Aheam offered four wines (actually five if one considers an “under the table” cabernet that was available) from the  Bonaccorsi Family, a Santa Barbara company. Kevin Sullivan shared his tastes from Spain and Le Vigne Winery, a Paso Robles favorite, was poured by Phillip Anderson.

At entry, guests were given a form that outlined what wines were being poured. They also had the chance to purchase their favorites with 10% being donated to the Kiwanis Club of the Verdugos, which was chartered in 2022.

The Kiwanis Club of the Verdugos is no stranger to the GCC campus. 

“We partner twice a year with GCC,” said Miryam Finkelberg, chair of the Saturday’s event and secretary of the Club. “We take part in the college’s resource fair, which benefits its Foster Youth Support Program.”

Much of the Club’s proceeds benefit the college’s Foster Youth Support Program.

No one left the event hungry, either. Delicacies from Porto’s Bakery & Café, as well as from other local vendors, were in abundance. Folks could enjoy a sip of wine and delicious food while enjoying each other’s company.

A silent auction with fun prizes rounded out the event.

Folks left with knowledge of wines from around the world, local culinary treats and (some) with silent auction items.

For an inaugural wine event, “it turned out pretty nicely,” said Finkelberg.